"But unto Hannah he gave a worthy portion; for he loved Hannah: but the Lord had shut up her womb"
Context:The book of 1 Samuel begins with the story of Hannah, who was one of the two wives of Elkanah. Elkanah’s other wife, Peninnah, had children, but Hannah remained barren. This verse highlights the contrast between how Elkanah treated Hannah and how the Lord had closed her womb.
Hannah’s Worthy Portion:Despite Hannah’s barrenness, Elkanah loved her deeply. The phrase "worthy portion" indicates that Elkanah honored Hannah by giving her a double portion of the sacrifices made during their annual pilgrimage to worship at the tabernacle. This gesture demonstrated Elkanah’s special affection and care for Hannah.
God’s Hand in Hannah’s Situation:The verse also reveals that the Lord had "shut up her womb." In biblical times, infertility was often seen as a sign of divine disfavour or punishment. Hannah’s barrenness was not due to any fault of her own, but it was part of God’s sovereign plan for her life. The phrase indicates that the Lord had allowed her to remain childless up to that point.
God’s Sovereignty and Purpose:The mention of God’s intervention in Hannah’s life raises questions about His sovereignty and purpose. It is essential to understand that while Hannah’s infertility was a source of pain and anguish for her, God had a greater plan in mind. As we continue reading the story, we see that God had a specific purpose for Hannah’s life, as she eventually became the mother of the prophet Samuel, who played a significant role in Israel’s history.
Trusting God in Difficult Times:Hannah’s situation teaches us the importance of trusting in God’s plan, even when faced with adversity or unfulfilled desires. Despite her anguish and the social stigma associated with barrenness, Hannah turned to the Lord in prayer and sought His intervention. Her faith and persistence in seeking God’s help serve as an example for us to bring our deepest concerns and desires before Him.
God’s Love and Care:The verse also highlights the love and care Elkanah had for Hannah, even though she was unable to bear him children. This demonstrates the importance of love and support within marriage, especially during challenging circumstances. Elkanah’s love for Hannah is a reminder that we are called to show compassion and understanding to those facing difficulties, rather than adding to their burden.
Application:1 Samuel 1:5 encourages us to trust in God’s sovereignty and seek Him wholeheartedly, even in the face of unfulfilled desires or challenging circumstances. It reminds us that God’s plan for our lives may be different from what we expect, but He has a purpose in everything. We can also learn from Elkanah’s example of loving and supporting our spouses during difficult times.
Remember to explore the broader context of 1 Samuel 1 to gain a deeper understanding of Hannah’s story and the lessons it offers.
